Troy Murray, a former NHL athlete whose career spanned 15 seasons and who spent decades as a dedicated analyst for the Chicago Blackhawks, passed away on Saturday following a battle with cancer. He was 63. Murray had been fighting the disease since 2021 and had recently stepped back from Hawks radio broadcasts on WGN because of his deteriorating health.
Career Highlights of Troy Murray
A native of Calgary, Murray was selected by the Blackhawks in the third round (No. 57) of the 1980 NHL Draft. He spanned 12 seasons with Chicago from 1982 to 1994 and competed in an overall of 15 NHL seasons. His most remarkable campaign came in 1985-86, when he tallied 45 goals and 54 assists for 99 points in 80 games, securing the Selke Trophy for the NHL’s top defensive forward.In his final NHL season in 1995-96, Murray helped the Colorado Avalanche capture the Stanley Cup. Over his profession, he amassed 584 points (230 goals, 354 assists) in 915 regular-season games in Chicago, Colorado, the Winnipeg Jets, Ottawa Senators, and Pittsburgh Penguins. He also recorded 43 points (17 goals, 26 assists) in 113 playoff games.
Broadcasting Legacy
Following his retirement in 1997, Murray joined the Blackhawks’ broadcast team in 1998. He served as a studio analyst from 1999 to 2004 and as a color commentator in the 2003-04 and 2005-06 seasons. In 2006, he partnered with John Wiedeman in the radio booth, where the duo called three Stanley Cup championship seasons (2010, 2013, and 2015).Even after his cancer diagnosis on August 9, 2021, Murray returned to the booth for a complete broadcast on December 15, 2021, calling a 5-4 overtime victory over the Washington Capitals. Mirroring on the experience, he stated,
"I can't say enough how much it means to me and my family to get the amazing support we've had. Even to walk downstairs, to see a lot of the people I haven't seen for a long time."
He also showed gratitude to Blackhawks leadership and colleagues mid-game:
"I really appreciate all the support all you guys have given me. I'm just glad to be back on the air, and it's just an amazing support cast I've had. It's been very humbling, very amazing. It really warms the heart."
Tributes from the Blackhawks
“The Chicago Blackhawks are deeply heartbroken today as we mourn the loss of Troy Murray, our beloved 'Muzz,' and our love and support go out to his family," Blackhawks chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz stated."Troy was the epitome of a Blackhawk, so far beyond his incredible playing career with a presence felt in every corner of our organization over the last 45 years. He was admired by his teammates and our players, and was so proud to connect generations of Blackhawks through his work with the Blackhawks Alumni Association.
"He jumped at every call to support our local community with our Foundation. He never missed a chance to say ‘hello’ in our press box and always knew the perfect time for a joke just when someone around the office needed it most. And he absolutely loved bringing Blackhawks hockey to you, our fans, night after night with a dedication to his craft that never wavered to the very end.
"During his long and hard battle with cancer, it was often said that Troy didn’t have any ‘give up’ in him. While our front office simply won’t be the same without him, we will carry that spirit forward every day in his honor. We’ll miss you, Troy.”
Remembering Troy Murray
Murray’s impact on the Blackhawks extended far beyond the ice. He remained actively involved with the Blackhawks Alumni Association and local community initiatives, connecting generations of fans and players alike. His presence in the press box, commitment to broadcasting, and warmth toward colleagues and fans ensured he would be remembered as one of the organization’s most legendary figures.FAQs:
Q1. Who was Troy Murray?Troy Murray was a professional NHL player and longtime Chicago Blackhawks analyst. He played 15 seasons in the league and later worked extensively in broadcasting.
Q2. How old was Troy Murray when he died?
Murray passed away at the age of 63. He had been battling cancer since 2021.
